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One of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta is to explore the food scene. You will find everything from street taco stands and seafood shacks to fine dining establishments, international cuisine, and vegetarian kitchens.

If you’re looking for restaurants that offer something distinctive, these are worth seeking out.

Here are the top unique places to eat in Puerto Vallarta:

Café des Artistes

Located in Old Town, Café des Artistes has been Puerto Vallarta’s most acclaimed restaurant since 1990. Chef Thierry Blouet, trained in France, creates French-Mexican fusion cuisine with seasonal tasting menus that sometimes follow creative themes, such as films. Dishes often include escargots prepared in ravioli with poblano peppers and pork belly in hibiscus merlot sauce. The setting is ideal for special occasions: a lush tropical garden with multi-level seating, ponds, candlelight, and live piano/violin music.

El Campanario

Directly across from the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, El Campanario is where locals go for traditional Mexican comfort food at affordable prices. This family-run spot has been serving neighborhood regulars for years, and if locals keep coming back, that tells you something. The menu includes grilled meats, soups, and classic regional dishes, making it a reliable choice after exploring the church or nearby plazas.

La Casa del Ceviche

This family-owned spot in Centro is known for some of the best ceviches in town. The menu focuses on fish and mixed seafood marinated with lime, herbs, and fresh toppings. The tuna ceviche, served with chile-infused soy sauce, is frequently mentioned by regulars, as is the mixed seafood option. Menu offerings may change depending on what’s available that day.

El Repollo Rojo

Off the typical tourist path in Emiliano Zapata, El Repollo Rojo (Red Cabbage Cafe) specializes in dishes from various Mexican states. The mole Oaxaqueño comes highly recommended by tourists. The atmosphere is relaxed and homey: think small kitchen with colorful décor

Veggitalia

Veggitalia is a top choice for vegetarian Italian food in Puerto Vallarta. You don’t need to be vegetarian to enjoy this restaurant; the menu includes options like salads, pizzas, and pasta dishes, with many of the ingredients imported from Italy. Portions are satisfying, and desserts, such as tiramisu, are a popular way to end the meal.

Restaurant Oscars

Restaurant Oscars sits at Isla Río Cuale and has been a Puerto Vallarta staple since 1997. This riverside spot offers a mix of cosmopolitan and traditional Mexican dishes and is also known for its guided tequila and mezcal tastings from their family-owned distillery. Opens daily from 11 AM to 11 PM, it works well for both casual meals and special gatherings.

Opa

For something outside the usual Mexican and seafood options, Opa serves Greek cuisine with a Mediterranean focus. The menu features familiar dishes, including avgolemono soup, shrimp prepared in the Naxos style, and a selection of Greek wines.

Mariscos Cisneros

Mariscos Cisneros, situated in the Romantic Zone, is renowned for its high-quality seafood. The menu includes cocteles, tacos, burritas, and quesadillas, often served with a variety of house salsas. The octopus quesadilla and crab enchiladas are frequently recommended. This is a casual spot with plastic chairs and quick service, so come for the food, not the ambiance.

Final Thoughts

These aren’t the only excellent restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, but they offer experiences beyond just a good meal. Reserving ahead is wise, especially during the high season from November to April.